With Roman ruins at the base on the hill and a striking medieval town perched on its summit, Vaison-la-Romaine is a fascinating Provençal community for those interested in history. Well-placed for exploring the region, the town offers a range of design-led B&Bs and heritage hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Small and often family-run, our pick of the best places to stay in Vaison-la-Romaine includes some very special spots.
History buffs will delight in discovering almost 15 hectares of Roman ruins. Part of what was once the prosperous city of Vasio, archeological remains sprawl across two areas: Puymin and La Villasse. See evidence of substantial houses, a colonnaded marketplace, a public bathhouse, paved streets and an irrigation system as you navigate the site. The archaeological museum is fantastic, whist keen historians can also visit the Roman bridge — one of five in Provence — and the theatre, which once sat up to 6,000 people. There are further Roman-era sites in nearby Orange.
Head uphill to see the medieval part of Vaison-la-Romaine, crowned by a ruined castle built in 1195 by the Counts of Toulouse. This part of town boasts a thriving weekly market, an array of art galleries and frequent exhibitions. Active types can hike and horse ride in the surrounding countryside, or tackle Mont Ventoux — the Tour de France’s ‘Beast of Provence’ — on two wheels. Winter events include black truffle hunts, cooking classes and expert-led tastings. A local specialty, these can also be savoured at some of the best places to stay in Vaison-la-Romaine.
